The Westmorland and Furness Council’s lake administration committee has proposed a 10% increase in fees for Windermere users in 2024/25 to meet the rising running costs. The proposed increase is expected to generate approximately £135,000 in additional income for the council. The proposed increase in fees includes an increase in the cost of open deck yachts moored annually from £846 to £930.60, and the cost of mooring licenses from £130.80 to £143.90.
The council officers have prepared a report that states the proposed increase is necessary to cover the additional running costs and to support the proposed additional lake wardens, who will help with the effective collection of existing income. The proposed increase is expected to minimize the impact of the additional running costs on other services or falling to all council taxpayers.
The proposed increase is a direct result of unprecedently high inflation during 2022/23 and in 2023/24. The increase ensures that the council is able to meet the additional running costs and support the proposed additional lake wardens.
It is expected that the proposed increase will impact Windermere boat owners, including open deck yacht owners, pleasure boat owners, and commercial rate boat owners. However, the proposed increase will not affect parking permits, boat registration scheme, or ferry nab charges. The proposed increase is expected to be approved by the council’s lake administration committee.
Current annual charges (for a 12 month period commencing 1 April)
- open deck yachts: £846
- moorings with no boat attached for the whole licence period: £651
- all other craft up to maximum length of 14m: £152.40 per metre (Vessels over 11m limited sites where available)
- commercial moorings: £1,669.50
- service moorings: £1,454.40
- local resident discount (SLDC residents): subject to being registered for full council tax and not in arrears or receiving second home relief, (pro rata as the year progresses): £217.20
Mooring licensees are entitled to limited free use of slipway, tractor, mast hoist and unlimited showers.
Windermere Permanent Mooring site info and application pack
Kath Beattie studied Journalism at The University of Central Lancashire and now writes for several Travel publications. She recently moved to The Lake District and enjoys walking her 3 dogs every day across the fells.
